Leaving Do Ideas

A good leaving do is easy for people to come to. After-work drinks or a team lunch suit most groups.

Start the card and collection about a week before.

Making the Gift Extra Special

Once you've settled on the perfect present, think about how you'll present it. A beautifully wrapped gift always makes a bigger impression than something handed over in its original bag. Choose wrapping paper that reflects their personality, or perhaps one that ties into their next adventure. Adding a lovely ribbon or a decorative tag with a personal handwritten note can elevate even the simplest gift, showing them you've put thought and care into their farewell.

Consider pairing the main gift with a little something extra. Perhaps a luxurious bar of their favourite chocolate, a packet of gourmet coffee beans for their new commute, or even a small, quirky keyring that hints at an inside joke. These thoughtful additions aren't about spending more money, but about adding layers of personal connection. It's those small, unexpected touches that really make a leaving gift memorable and show how much you appreciate them.

Crafting the Perfect Card Message

While we've given you a few ideas, remember the best card messages come from the heart. Think about a specific memory you share with the person, an inside joke, or a particular quality you admire in them. Including a brief, personal anecdote makes your message unique and truly special. It shows you've taken the time to reflect on your time together and will be genuinely missed. Even a short, sincere message can be incredibly impactful and cherished.

Don't feel pressured to write a novel; sometimes, less is more. A few well-chosen words that convey warmth and good wishes are far more effective than a lengthy, generic message. If they're moving to a new area, you might wish them well with exploring their new surroundings. If they're retiring, acknowledge their hard work and wish them a restful future. Tailoring your message to their specific circumstances shows genuine consideration.

Ideas

• After-work drinks
• Team lunch
• Bowling or mini golf
• Escape room
• Office cake and card

Organising

• Pick a date that suits most
• Start a card and collection
• Choose a gift
• Book the venue

Leaving card messages

• Good luck in your new job! We'll miss you.
• Don't forget us when you're famous.

Key things to remember

• Start the card early.
• Keep it inclusive.
• Book ahead.

Frequently asked questions

When should you organise a leaving do?

About one to two weeks before their last day.

What is a good example of leaving Do Ideas?

"Bowling or mini golf" is one of 11 examples on this page. Pick the one closest to the tone you want, then add a specific detail of your own - a shared memory, a date, a name - so it reads as yours rather than copied.

Can I copy these messages word for word?

Yes. Everything on this page is free to copy, print and read out - no permission or credit needed. Changing one detail so it fits the person is all we would suggest.

How long should a card message be?

One to three lines suits most cards. Write the message before the name so you can start again if it goes wrong, and if you run out of room, carry on inside the back cover rather than shrinking your handwriting.

What's a good budget for a leaving gift?

The budget really depends on your workplace culture and how many people are contributing. A general rule of thumb is to contribute what you feel comfortable with, especially if it's a collection amongst colleagues. It's more about the thought and gesture than the monetary value. The key is to ensure the gift feels appropriate and comes from a place of genuine appreciation.

Is it okay to bring a leaving gift to the leaving do?

Absolutely! The leaving do is often the perfect time to present the card and gift. It allows everyone to share in the moment and for the person leaving to receive their well wishes collectively. If it's a larger gift, you might want to arrange for someone to help carry it or perhaps present it towards the end of the gathering. It makes for a lovely culmination to the celebration.

Choose a leaving card

Choose the card before collecting the team’s messages: our colleague leaving cards cover office jokes and new-job good wishes. Browse the wider leaving cards range for a send-off outside work, and check each product’s size before arranging group signatures.

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